Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No Bake Berry Lush is a light, creamy, and colorful layered dessert bursting with sweet berries, fluffy whipped topping, and a buttery cookie crust. With no oven required, it’s perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or 4th of July celebrations. Each spoonful delivers a refreshing mix of fruity and creamy textures that’s both crowd-pleasing and effortlessly elegant.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
graham cracker crumbs or vanilla wafer crumbsunsalted buttermeltedcream cheese (softened)powdered sugarvanilla extractwhipped topping (like Cool Whip)instant vanilla pudding mixcold milkfresh strawberries (sliced)fresh blueberries
directions
In a bowl, combine cookie or graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Mix until combined, then press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Chill in the fridge for 15 minutes.
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
Fold in half of the whipped topping to make a creamy layer. Spread over the chilled crust.
Prepare the vanilla pudding by whisking with cold milk until thickened. Spread the pudding over the cream cheese layer.
Top with remaining whipped topping, spreading evenly.
Arrange sliced strawberries and blueberries on top in a flag pattern or swirl design.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 12–15 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesChill time: 4 hoursTotal time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Variations
Use lemon or cheesecake pudding for a flavor twist.
Add raspberries or blackberries for extra berry variety.
Use a shortbread or chocolate cookie crust for a different base.
Top with white chocolate shavings or almond slivers for texture.
Make in individual cups or jars for easy single servings.
storage/reheating
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Do not freeze, as the whipped topping and pudding layers may separate.Best served chilled—do not reheat.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s ideal for preparing the night before serving.
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Yes, just ensure it’s whipped to stiff peaks for structure.
What kind of berries work best?
Fresh strawberries and blueberries are ideal—firm and sweet.
Is it very sweet?
It’s lightly sweetened, with balance from the cream cheese and fresh berries.
Can I use frozen berries?
Fresh is preferred, but thawed and well-drained frozen berries can be used in a pinch.
Can I skip the pudding?
You can, but it adds creaminess and structure—consider using more whipped topping if omitting.
What if I don’t have a 9×13 pan?
Use a similar-sized dish or split between smaller containers.
Can I add gelatin?
Not needed, but you can add a berry gelatin layer below the fruit for a firmer top.
How do I keep the crust from crumbling?
Press it down firmly and chill before adding layers.
Is it kid-friendly?
Absolutely! It’s fruity, creamy, and easy to eat.
Conclusion
No Bake Berry Lush is a dreamy, chilled dessert layered with sweet cream, pudding, and fresh berries atop a buttery crust. Effortless to assemble and full of vibrant color and flavor, it’s the perfect make-ahead treat for summer events. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday or a sunny weekend picnic, it’s a guaranteed hit with guests of all ages.
PrintNo Bake Berry Lush
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
No Bake Berry Lush is a cool, creamy layered dessert featuring a graham cracker crust, cheesecake layer, berry pudding, and whipped topping—perfect for summer parties and potlucks.
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed (divided)
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 cup raspberries
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form a crust. Chill for 10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in half of the whipped topping. Spread over the crust.
- In another bowl, whisk together pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. Gently fold in the remaining whipped topping. Spread over the cream cheese layer.
- Top with sliced strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries.
- Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to set before serving.
Notes
- Use a mix of fresh or thawed frozen berries depending on availability.
- Layer fruit in a pattern for a decorative effect.
- Store leftovers in the fridge, covered, for up to 3 days.